A driver today appeared in court charged with causing the death of a teenager who was hit on the head by the mast of a boat being towed in Bewdley.

Mark Tissiman appeared at Kidderminster Magistrates Court charged with causing the death of Sarah James by dangerous driving. 

He was driving a Range Rover Sport which was towing the boat involved in the accident, the court heard. 

Miss James, aged 19, was a passenger in a purple Rover travelling in the opposite direction, when the mast of the boat struck her on the head.  She suffered severe injuries and died later.

Tissiman, aged 47, of Kidderminster Road, Bewdley, did not enter a plea and spoke only to confirm his name and address.

He was granted unconditional bail and the case was committed to Worcester Crown Court to be heard on February 2.

The tragedy happened as the boat was being towed along Dowles Road, near Bewdley .

Miss James, from Redstone Drive, Highley, near Bridgnorth, was in the front passenger seat of the Rover when she was struck by the mast at 10.40pm on Wednesday June 4 on the B4194.